Crabtree Falls
North Carolina • 70 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls sits along the Blue Ridge Parkway and tumbles roughly 70 feet through a series of cascades, framed by dense hardwood forest and thickets of rhododendron. The waterfall’s layered drops and the surrounding green canopy make it a favorite for photographers and hikers looking for a classic Appalachian streamside stroll. The setting feels intimate and wild, with the sound of water present from several vantage points along the loop. The hiking route to the falls is a moderate 2.5-mile loop with about 500 feet of elevation gain, making it a great half-day outing for hikers comfortable on uneven terrain. Camping is available relatively close by at the Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, about 8.47 km away, for those wanting to extend their visit. Expect rewarding views at the cascades and come prepared for rocky, sometimes steep sections near the water’s edge.
The Setting
Crabtree Falls sits at 2,864 feet along the South Toe River, in the hills of North Carolina. The falls drop 70 feet.
Height: 70 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile loop trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This is a 2.5-mile loop trail with roughly 500 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The path is primarily natural tread—packed dirt interspersed with exposed roots and rocky stretches—and becomes steeper and more uneven as you approach the waterfall. Hikers should be prepared for short, rocky sections that can be slippery when wet; sturdy footwear and a steady pace are recommended for this moderately graded loop.
What to Expect
The falls drop 70 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Crabtree Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Crabtree Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow, while fall offers stunning foliage. Winter visits may be quieter but could involve icy trail conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery near the waterfall, especially after rain. Exercise caution on rocky sections and stay on marked paths. Winter conditions may make the trail icy and hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
55 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
0.80 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SOUTH TOE RIVER NEAR CELO, NC (5 km away).
Today
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
59 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
61 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Spruce Pine hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 238 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The falls are listed at 70 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,862 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 63 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 157 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,862 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 238 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Crabtree Falls is located at Milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, near Little Switzerland, North Carolina. Visitors can access the trailhead from the Crabtree Falls Campground parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Crabtree Falls Campground area. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,864 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.856735° N, -82.136072° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery near the falls. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Bring water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
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With 2.5 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
PINE VALLEY MOTEL
Alpine Inn
Ruth's Place Tiny Home Retreat 1 mile to town
The Embers Hotel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
CAROLINA HEMLOCKS REC AREA
5.3 miles away · 39 sites
Overview Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area sits in the scenic mountains of Pisgah National Forest. This is a great place for small to medium-sized groups to swim, fish, tube, hike, camp, picnic and simply relax in the cool shade of the forest.Recreation The river provides endless hours of fun for families and water enthusiasts, including swimming and tubing. Anglers can also try their luck for trout and smallmouth bass from the shore. Picnickers will enjoy relaxing in the shaded picnic shelter se
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Swannanoa, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Swannanoa, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland, and Mount Mitchell State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also see wildflowers and rhododendrons along the trail.
Cities near Crabtree Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Crabtree Falls
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